Camp Douglas

Camp Douglas Chicago: Visiting Hours, Tickets, and Historical Sites Guide

Date: 04/07/2025

Introduction: Camp Douglas’s Legacy in Chicago Civil War History

Located in Chicago’s Bronzeville neighborhood, Camp Douglas stands as a profound symbol of the city’s Civil War past. Established in 1861 as a training ground for Union soldiers, the site quickly became one of the largest and most infamous Union prisoner-of-war camps. Over four years, tens of thousands of Confederate soldiers were held there, and the camp’s harsh conditions led to significant suffering and loss. Today, while no original structures remain, the story of Camp Douglas endures through memorials, educational initiatives, and ongoing community efforts. This guide provides everything you need to know about visiting the site, its historical significance, nearby attractions, and ways to connect with this pivotal chapter of American history (Metropolis Cafe, Camp Douglas Restoration Foundation, Loyola University Chicago).

Portrait of Benjamin J. Sweet in military uniform

Bird's eye view of Camp Douglas Chicago in 1862 showing military tents and layout

Camp Douglas near Chicago Illinois with rows of tents and soldiers during American Civil War

Historical black and white photograph of Camp Douglas military prison in Chicago, Illinois, 1864

Civil War-era Camp Douglas near Chicago with Confederate prisoners of war

Camp Douglas Civil War prison camp illustration from Harper's Weekly 1862

Historical map showing location of Camp Douglas on Chicago streets as of 1895

Camp Douglas Village Hall historic building exterior

Portrait of Colonel Charles Victor DeLand in uniform

Confederate prisoners at Camp Douglas Chicago Illinois ca. 1862 including Nathan B. Nesbitt of Brown's 55th Tennessee Infantry Regiment CSA

Nathan B. Nesbitt and Confederate prisoners at Camp Douglas Chicago 1862

Confederate prisoners at Camp Douglas during the Civil War in Chicago Illinois circa 1863

Five unidentified Confederate prisoners of war in front of their barracks at Camp Douglas Prison Chicago Illinois

Civil War Infantry Camp of 71st New York Infantry at Camp Douglas in 1861

Infantry camp of the 71st New York Infantry at Camp Douglas in 1861

Detailed lithograph layout of Camp Douglas in Illinois from 1896

Susan Burbridge taking the Oath of Allegiance at Camp Douglas in 1863

Pennsylvania Volunteers at Camp Douglas circa 1863 in Civil War uniforms

Historical map of Camp Douglas from 1864-65 with dotted lines indicating streets located in 1884

Prisoners stripped and searched in the snow at Camp Douglas during the Civil War

Rebel prisoners at Camp Douglas prison camp in Chicago, Illinois during the Civil War

Site plan displaying the location of prisoner of war barracks at Camp Douglas Chicago Illinois circa 1865

Tintype portrait of Confederate soldier Nathan B. Nesbitt from Carroll County, Tennessee

Tintype portrait of Confederate soldier Nathan B. Nesbitt in uniform from Carroll County, Tennessee

Group portrait of Union officers and guides who escaped from Confederate prison in Columbia, South Carolina, taken in Knoxville, Tennessee, January 1, 1865

View and cross section of prisoner of war barracks at Camp Douglas Chicago Illinois

Historical Overview: Origins and Civil War Role
Visiting Camp Douglas Today: Hours, Tickets & Memorials
Educational Resources and Virtual Opportunities
Accessibility, Travel Tips, and Area Attractions
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Conclusion and Further Engagement
Sources

Historical Overview: From Union Training Ground to POW Camp

Establishment and Early Use
Camp Douglas was founded in 1861, originally as a mustering and training camp for Union regiments. Named after Senator Stephen A. Douglas, whose nearby land was partially used for the camp hospital, the grounds covered about 60–70 acres. The camp’s location, once home to public events and fairs, made it ideal for large-scale military use (chicagopostalhistory.com).

Transition to Prisoner-of-War Camp
In February 1862, following Union victories at Fort Henry and Fort Donelson, Camp Douglas’s function shifted dramatically. The camp began receiving Confederate POWs, rapidly expanding to house thousands of prisoners. By late 1862, the camp population peaked above 7,000. With limited infrastructure and poor planning, the site quickly became overcrowded and unsanitary (mycivilwar.com).

Conditions and Mortality
Camp Douglas gained a notorious reputation for its harsh conditions. Inadequate shelter, food shortages, and a lack of medical care led to outbreaks of smallpox, pneumonia, and other deadly diseases. Estimates suggest between 4,500–6,000 Confederate prisoners died at Camp Douglas, making it one of the deadliest Union prison camps (Loyola University Chicago; chicagopostalhistory.com).

Visiting Camp Douglas Today: Hours, Tickets & Memorials

Where Was Camp Douglas Located?

The original camp was bounded by 31st Street (north), 33rd Place (south), Cottage Grove Avenue (east), and Giles Avenue (west), now a vibrant residential and commercial area. No physical camp structures remain; the site is marked only by historical signage and urban development (CBS News; WBEZ).

Visiting Hours and Admission

Camp Douglas Historical Marker: Accessible at all times in a public area.
Oak Woods Cemetery / Confederate Mound: Open daily, typically 8:00 am–5:00 pm (seasonal variations may apply).
Tickets & Fees: There are no admission fees or tickets required to visit the marker or Confederate Mound.

What to Expect

No Museum or Visitor Center: There is no on-site museum, visitor center, or reconstructed camp.
Self-Guided Exploration: The area is freely accessible for walking tours and reflection.
Memorials:
- Illinois State Historical Marker: Located along Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Drive.
- Confederate Mound at Oak Woods Cemetery: The principal memorial to those who died at Camp Douglas, listing over 4,000 names.

Educational Resources and Virtual Opportunities

Camp Douglas Restoration Foundation (CDRF)
The CDRF preserves the camp’s legacy through educational programs, a traveling exhibit, lectures, and online resources. Their exhibit, featuring banners with photos, text, and QR codes, travels to schools and libraries across Chicago (CDRF Resources).

Lectures and Virtual Tours
CDRF and local historical organizations regularly host lectures and virtual events, providing deeper insights through expert talks, artifact displays, and online galleries (Lombard History).

Recommended Reading & Research

The Story of Camp Douglas, Chicago’s Forgotten Civil War Prison by David L. Keller
Andersonvilles of the North by James M. Gillispie
Additional resources and a full bibliography are available through CDRF.

Accessibility, Travel Tips, and Area Attractions

How to Get There
Bronzeville is accessible via the CTA Green Line (35th–Bronzeville–IIT station) and multiple bus routes. Street parking is available, but can be limited. Oak Woods Cemetery (1035 E 67th St) is accessible by car or the #67 CTA bus.

Accessibility
Both the historical marker and cemetery are wheelchair accessible, though some paths in the cemetery may be uneven.

Nearby Attractions

Bronzeville Walk of Fame: Plaques honoring African American leaders.
DuSable Museum of African American History: In nearby Washington Park (Timeout Chicago).
Hyde Park & Museum of Science and Industry: Offers additional historical and cultural experiences.
Dining & Accommodations: Available throughout Bronzeville, South Loop, and Hyde Park (Miss Tourist).

Safety
Bronzeville is generally safe during the day; standard urban precautions are advised. Be respectful when visiting the cemetery, especially during services.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: Are there visiting hours or tickets required for Camp Douglas?
A: No. The historical marker is always accessible; Oak Woods Cemetery is open daily, generally 8:00 am–5:00 pm. No tickets are required.

Q: What can I see at the site today?
A: There are no surviving camp buildings. You can visit the historical marker along Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Drive and the Confederate Mound at Oak Woods Cemetery.

Q: Are there guided tours?
A: Occasional walking tours, lectures, and pop-up exhibits are organized by the Camp Douglas Restoration Foundation—check their website for schedules (Camp Douglas Restoration Foundation).

Q: Is the area accessible?
A: Yes. Both the marker and cemetery are wheelchair accessible, though some terrain may be uneven.

Q: Are there paranormal stories?
A: Local legends mention ghost sightings and mysterious bugle calls at the former camp site (CBS News), though these are not officially recognized.

Conclusion and Further Engagement

Camp Douglas’s physical presence has faded, but its memory endures through historical markers, the solemn Confederate Mound, and the dedicated work of local organizations. A visit to the area provides a contemplative experience and an opportunity to reflect on the Civil War’s human cost and Chicago’s evolving landscape. Enhance your visit by attending a CDRF event, exploring Bronzeville’s cultural sites, or participating in virtual tours. For the latest events and resources, follow the Camp Douglas Restoration Foundation and consider downloading the Audiala app for curated guides to Chicago historical sites.